In an effort to create jobs and begin to alleviate Illinois’ financial crisis, some lawmakers have proposed Illinois join a number of states across the country and allow fracking, also known as hydraulic gracturing, but many believe the idea is not fully thought out. Senator Mattie Hunter proposed SB 1418 in an effort to ban fracking for two years while a task force examines the possible environmental risks relating to fracking.

“What’s the rush?” said Hunter. “We’ve made hasty decisions in the past here in Illinois, only to regret them later.”

Environmental groups across the state oppose the idea of fracking. The Illinois Coalition for a Moratorium on Fracking hosted an anti-fracking rally on Tuesday, March 12, in the Capitol where a number of Illinois residents voiced their concerns about the affects of fracking.

Other legislators have voiced their support for a moratorium on fracking as well. House Speaker Michael Madigan voiced his support for the moratorium in a Chicago Sun-Times article, noting that fracking has not had positive results in other states like Pennsylvania.

Legislation to regulate fracking has also been filed. House Bill 2615 outlines regulations on fracking.

While Hunter’s bill creates a short-term moratorium, fracking will not necessarily be banned forever. The goal is to protect the people of Illinois from possible environmental risks while dealing with the state’s financial issues.

“I would rather be safe than sorry,” said Hunter.